7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Greece and Albania With Itinerary from Athens to Kalambaka, Gjirokastra, and Saranda

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Greece and Albania has in store for you! You will be staying in Athens for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Plaka is a fantastic place you can explore today in Athens. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Athens-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Monastiraki, a neighborhood offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the extraordinary Parthenon and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Acropolis Of Athens, a culturally significant archeological site that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Acropolis Museum, one of the city’s most astonishing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally renowned Monastiraki Square 6.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Greece's delectable cuisine at one of Athens's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Harvest Coffee & Wine, a highly-rated dining destination in Athens. If you're eager to try something different, consider 42 Barstronomy Athens, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at O Babas. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Athens this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Tiki Bar Athens, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Brettos offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Luxus Bar Bistro. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Greece and Albania! Enjoy your evening in Athens to the fullest!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Delphi in Greece. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kalambaka, your home for 1 night.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Delphi’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Athens behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 22 min. Delphi welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Tholos Of Delphi, a beloved archeological site that everyone visiting Delphi should see. Next, head to Delphi Archaeological Museum. This respected museum is one of the most interesting attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Temple Of Apollo In Delphi, a grand archeological site popular among locals as well as travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Delphi and set your GPS to Kalambaka. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 39 min. Upon reaching Kalambaka, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Kalambaka is Greek Education Museum, a frequently visited museum that draws attention for its heritage-rich features.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Kalambaka. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Greece and Albania by rewarding yourself with a taste of Kalambaka’s local cuisine.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Greece and Albania. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Kalambaka in Greece and Gjirokastra in Albania. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Gjirokastra where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Visiting Monastery Of The Holy Trinity At Meteora is always a good idea. This increasingly popular monastery is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kastraki. This drive usually takes around 7 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Monastery Of Varlaam, a locally appreciated monastery in Kastraki. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Ioannina, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Kastraki to Ioannina may take around 1 hour 50 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Ioannina, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Ioannina Castle, a well-known castle known for its romantic features.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Gjirokastra. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Albania's delectable cuisine at one of Gjirokastra's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the town’s most recommended bars.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Taverna Tradicionale KARDHASHI, a popular restaurant in Gjirokastra. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Gjirokastra at Taverna Brahimi, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Restorant Tradicional Urat. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Gjirokastra tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Hangover Cocktail Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

As the night falls in Gjirokastra, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Greece and Albania. Today's main destinations are Gjirokastra in Albania, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Saranda. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Check out the often recommended museum, Skenduli House In Gjirokastër. Afterward, continue to Staryj Gorod Girokastry, a historical landmark every traveler should visit. As you explore Gjirokastra’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Next, make your way to Castle Of Gjirokastra. This underrated castle is an essential stop.

After soaking in Gjirokastra’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Krongj. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 44 min. When you arrive in Krongj, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Blue Eye, an intriguing karst spring that everyone visiting Krongj should see. Next, head to The Blue Eye.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Saranda. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Greece and Albania, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Saranda.

Make sure to reserve a table at Italian Mattarello pizzeria, an iconic dining spot in Saranda. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Gerthela, a popular restaurant in Saranda. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Meat House Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Saranda. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Elvis Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Tipsy Drinks And More is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Jamaica also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

On day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Greece and Albania, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Vrinë in Albania and Ioannina in Greece. In the evening, you’ll end up in Athens, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Saranda’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Vrinë. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 33 min. When you arrive in Vrinë, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Venetian Castle, a beloved castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Ioannina, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Vrinë to Ioannina may take around 2 hours 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Ioannina, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Ali Pasha's Tomb, a worthwhile monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Fethiye Mosque and admire its respected features.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Athens of your choice.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that Athens boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of the region.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cookoovaya, a top-rated dining spot in Athens. If you're in the mood for something new, try Karamanlidika, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Estiatorio Auli. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Athens.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Kazu Cafe-bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Upupa Epops - The Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Gazarte is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Greece and Albania! Enjoy your evening in Athens to the fullest!